It’s cancer season, baby (cries).
It’s my 28th birthday this week, so I have forced myself to write 28 things I have learnt over the past year. I won’t be sharing this with you (even though I’m fully aware that I overshare online). However, one of the biggest lessons I’ve learnt this year is how to prioritise joy.
For the first time in a long while, I’ve truly been embracing what brings me joy, without shame or fear of judgment, and without worrying whether it's “productive”. In turn, I’ve also been focusing more on actually figuring out the answer to the question, “what brings me joy?”. I know there will be some of you thinking, “girl shut the f*** up with this “woo, woo” bullshit, but this shift in thinking has been a relief for me and quite a fun journey. If I look back at a year ago, things were pretty different. In short, I was burnt out, I didn’t “feel like myself” and desperately wanted to find comfort and return to myself.
So, I really hope that Out of Hours continues to remind you to prioritise joy and not to worry if you don’t know what that means to you yet – that’s the fun part, figuring it out.
So, speaking about joy, let’s catch up on a few joyful moments I’ve had recently:
I’ve discovered a new place in Dubai (this will be the only time I am a gatekeeper) where I can hide and read. I LOVE IT. In a city like Dubai (which is relatively small) it’s hard to find quiet spaces. So yes, I will be keeping this to myself—but I wanted to share my excitement with you.
I went to Creative Minds again (a huge arts and crafts shop where I can spend hours) and had a great time browsing the aisles. A few years ago, I was really into watercolors, and decided it’s time I got back into it. So I spent an obscene amount on a watercolour palette (minor regrets).
I’m in the process of booking a short trip to Georgia in September with a friend. We spend most days sharing travel inspiration via DMs, but haven’t been on a trip together yet. I am the “documenter” and she is “booker” - what a great team. Would anyone be interested in mini travel guides?
I bought a new set of pyjamas for AED 49 in Muji (a steal!!!). I’m extremely particular about pjs, and strongly believe you should invest in good ones-comfort always comes first.
I finally found storage for my Sonny Angels and Calico Critters (I will not be sharing the name of the retailer here, but DM me if you want a link).
I organised my “Personal Dashboard” on Notion. Ugh, it feels so good. I’m a huge fan of Notion, so if anyone wants a tutorial on how to organise their life, please DM me.
I spent my evenings curled up on the sofa with the cats watching The Bear (if you haven’t watched it yet - go watch it now).
I started a list (an extensive) one of all the films I want to watch (or re-watch) this year.
I went for many solo coffee dates (and some friend dates).
I spent some time in the pottery studio and took my first creation home (a cute green cup).
ICYMI
The Late-in-Life Lesbian Experience Blossoms Online
A cute article about women who have discovered they love women a bit later on in life. Many of the women in their 40-60s have been reliant on social media (particularly) TikTok in connecting with the community.
I have a Terrible Memory. Am I Better Off That Way?
This pieces explores the concept of “Rememberers” and “Forgetters” - people with strong autobiographical memories versus those who don’t. The writer questions whether we experience the world differently, and whether being a “Forgetter” might actually be a good thing.
In Defence of Calling Everything an Aesthetic
I really enjoyed this piece. The writer delves into how "aesthetic" has evolved from a philosophical concept to a term people use to describe subcultures (like coastal grandma) or as a substitute for "cool" (e.g., "smoking is so aesthetic"). She explores whether our need to identify and name aesthetics stems from a desire to find meaning in everyday objects and experiences. The writer also questions if there's a certain pleasure in recognizing these aesthetics. Ultimately, she argues that this trend serves a purpose - helping people make sense of their visual world and connect with others.
If you’re keen to learn more about all the “internet aesthetics” out there, I recommend scrolling through Aesthetics Wiki. I went into a rabbit hole and discovered a whole new world.
What to watch this week
Fernando Souza directed an intimate 15-minute short film that explores the life of a trans man employed as a host in Tokyo’s Red Light District. In this industry, hosts are known for “selling dreams” to their clients. The film delves into themes of love, loss and survival. 1
Fifi Abdo Reacts to Saint Hoax Memes
I’ve watched this at least 3 times. I love her energy. For those who don’t know Fifi Abdou is an Egyptian actress and dancer who is now in her 70s. Plastik also just released their latest issue with Fifi on the cover (iconic).
The Lore Behind Girl, So Confusing
We all know it’s a brat girl summer, but do you know the history behind Charli XCX and Lorde? I didn’t realise there was beef to be honest, but according to ViDEOGiRL Charli’s latest hit Girl, So Confusing is about the weird relationship between the singers.
Things that should be on your radar
I’m gunna say it again - we need more reading retreats. Just stumbled across Page Break and it looks perfect. The retreat includes group reading, solo reading, dinners inspired by books (cooked up by local chefs) and unlimited wine. The only catch is that it’s in New York.
Room Service
Michael McGregor is an LA-based illustrator, and I’m obsessed with his work. He didn’t start drawing until he was 32 - he was burnt out, depressed and “over New York”. It was a girl he was dating that encouraged him to draw (she’s an illustrator too). His work is mostly observational drawings of universal experiences or objects. However, my favourite series of his work is Room Service - a series of drawings on hotel stationary - which capture and preserve small, fleeting moments cherished during his travels.
Ergon Bakehouse (Athens)
I’m extremely desperate to go to Athens, so naturally, I’ve been adding a bunch of places to my “saved” folder. This is a hotel and a bakery and an eatery - a food lover’s paradise.
Pharaoh (Athens)
Another one from my Athens folder. They serve wood-fire dishes and natural wine. Yum.
I’m a big fan of the digital platform Middle East Archive. They curate and revive diverse photographic memories from the Middle East and Maghreb, focusing on everyday life and culture. They have dropped a new book Football كرة القدم (which is sold out FYI) which features photographs from the late 80s until 2024 exploring the region’s football culture.
FYI, you can read past letters here.
Thank you for reading. If you enjoyed this letter please share it with a friend, neighbour, lover, stranger 💋
There’s also a new 90-minute feature length film, but I’m yet to find it anywhere.
dying at this pic of baby you 🥺🥺